Kid-friendly tastes at Taste of Chicago

Photo: Heather Schroering

With two giant inflatable slides, a Princess Palace bounce, inflatable basketball hoops and a tent full of flat-screen TVs and game stations, the Kidz Zone provides a great shaded spot where families can chill out. Located at the corner of Jackson Boulevard and Columbus Drive. Thursday and Friday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Taste of Chicago - Kidz Zone)

With two giant inflatable slides, a Princess Palace bounce, inflatable basketball hoops and a tent full of flat-screen TVs and game stations, the Kidz Zone provides a great shaded spot where families can chill out. Located at the corner of Jackson Boulevard and Columbus Drive. Thursday and Friday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Taste of Chicago - Kidz Zone) (Photo: Heather Schroering)

By Heather SchroeringThe Taste of Chicago, running through the weekend, isn't just a fun way for adults to try new things. It gives kids the option to be adventurous eaters, too—at a kid price. "You don't feel obligated to buy a large portion, and the kids can try something new," said Sabrina Isaac, who strolled through Grant Park with her husband and two kids Wednesday, the fest's opening day.

We visited the Taste to check out this year's lineup of more than 60 restaurants and food trucks. The five-day fest is free to attend, but food and beverage tickets are sold in strips of 12 for $8.50. "Taste Of" portions are $2.50 or less. You can find it all—including our recommended kid-approved foods and activities—in Grant Park, mostly along Columbus Drive between Jackson Boulevard and Congress Parkway—Thursday and Friday 11 a.m.-9 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m.-9 p.m.(cityofchicago.org)